Toilet Flusher having Substance Dispensing Activated By Sensor Directed at Flush Water

ABSTRACT

Toilet flusher comprising an energy source, a control unit, a sensor unit, and at least one first container that contains a first preparation and may be coupled with the toilet flusher, wherein the sensor unit detects an initiation of the flow of flushing water without engaging in the flow of flush water and generates a signal that is conducted to the control unit that converts the sensor signal into a control signal for dispensing at least one preparation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/EP2008/054202 filed 8 Apr. 2008, which claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2007 040 324.2 filed 24 Aug. 2007, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention relates to a toilet freshener with electromechanically effected release of preparations in or on a toilet bowl, the toilet freshener having at least one sensor which can detect a flushing process without significantly influencing flow conditions in a toilet bowl.

Accurate dispensing of flowable or pourable compositions is relevant in a large number of fields of application.

Domestically, dispensing of flowable substances is increasing in importance, based primarily on precise, controlled dispensing of active substances so that the environment is protected by conservation of resources and prevention of incorrect or over-dispensing, while efficiency of the active substances dispensed in this way is optimized.

Dispensing of cleaning and fragrancing compositions in the toilet area is currently performed primarily by “toilet fresheners”. These are single- or multi-chamber containers which are hung in the toilet bowl in such a way that an active substance is released from the toilet freshener into the toilet bowl during the flushing process of flushing the toilet bowl with water.

Such devices are known for example from EP0828902 or DE10113036.

A significant disadvantage of these toilet fresheners is that dispensing depends substantially on local flow conditions in the toilet bowl during the flushing process. However, flow conditions can vary widely, depending on the type of toilet and positioning of the toilet freshener in or on the toilet bowl. For example, with certain toilet types it is possible that no active substance is released from the toilet freshener due to no or insufficient water flowing over the toilet freshener during the flushing process, resulting in the dispensing mechanism of the toilet freshener not being initiated.

Further, even if flush water flows as intended over a toilet freshener, this can disturb the water path intended by the toilet manufacturer, thereby reducing flushing performance of a toilet.

Active substances are typically released from such toilet fresheners by penetration of flush water through openings in the toilet freshener, at least partially dissolving the active substances and discharging them away from the toilet freshener when the flush water exits through corresponding outlet openings. Depending on how the toilet freshener is arranged in the toilet, the amount of flow through it can vary due to very different flow conditions locally in flush water outlet from the toilet bowl rim, resulting in only a slight release of active substances.

Accordingly, the flush water stream can be influenced by introduction of a toilet freshener. The change in flow conditions can alter the flushing behavior of the toilet markedly. Often the flush water stream is influenced so that water is splashed upwards out of the toilet bowl, with flush water escaping from the toilet bowl or coming into contact with the user when the toilet is used, which is undesirable.

Further, flow paths in toilets are often designed in order to reduce the amount of flush water used while still maintaining the same or improved flushing behavior. Any intervention in flush water flow in toilets so optimized has a far greater effect on flushing behavior.

It is therefore desirable to have a dispenser for releasing active substances into a toilet bowl which dispenses active substances into the toilet bowl independent of the toilet flushing process.

The present invention therefore provides a device which releases active substances into a toilet bowl during the flushing process without influencing flow conditions in the toilet bowl during the flushing process.

This is accomplished by a toilet freshener comprising a power source, control unit, and at least one container containing at least a first preparation, wherein the container can be coupled to the toilet freshener. A sensor unit detects initiation of a flush water stream without intervening in flush water flow and generates a sensor signal for forwarding to the control unit. The control unit converts the sensor signal into a control signal for release of at least one preparation. The power source, control unit and at least the first container interact so that in the presence of a control signal representing initiation of the flush water stream, at least the first preparation is released from the first container into the surrounding environment by a pump and/or a release element.

‘Without intervening’ means that the flush water stream is not influenced (i.e., does not undergo any significant deviation). It is therefore particularly preferred that the sensor unit not contact the flush water stream. However, it is also feasible for the sensor unit to be brought into contact with the flush water stream without influencing the flush water stream. This can be accomplished in the sensor unit by, for example, a thin rod or wire which is introduced into the flush water stream perpendicularly to the flush water flow direction.

The toilet freshener according to the invention consists of various components which may in turn be combined into assemblies. These components include at least one pump, a release element, a control unit, a sensor unit, a power source, a container, a fastening means and a preparation. In a preferred embodiment, the pump, control unit, sensor unit and power source are combined into a “dispenser” assembly. The components and assemblies are described below.

Dispenser—

The dispenser can include the power source needed to operate the toilet freshener, its control unit, sensor unit and at least one pump. Preferably, the dispenser includes a housing for protection from water splashing into the interior of the dispenser, as may occur when the toilet freshener is used in a toilet bowl.

It is also preferred to have the dispenser arranged on the outer rim of the toilet bowl, further enabling protection from exposure to water splashes as well as convenient operation of the dispenser. In addition, by having a dispenser that does not project into the interior of the toilet, the useful cross-sectional area of the toilet bowl is not reduced.

Since, depending on their intended purpose, dispensable preparations can have a pH value of from 2 to 12, any component of the toilet freshener which contacts these preparations should have appropriate acid and/or alkali resistance. In addition, proper material selection should ensure that these components are as far as possible chemically inert (e.g., in relation to nonionic surfactants, enzymes and/or fragrances that may be present in the preparation).

It is particularly advantageous for electrical components of the toilet freshener such as the power source, control unit and sensor unit to be encapsulated or housed separately or together in such a way that the dispenser is substantially water-tight (i.e., the dispenser is thus functional even when completely surrounded by liquid). Examples of useful encapsulation materials include multicomponent epoxide and acrylate encapsulation compounds such as methacrylate esters, urethane meth- and cyanoacrylates or two-component materials comprising polyurethanes, silicones, and epoxy resins.

A significant advantage of the invention is the separation of the toilet freshener into a dispenser and a container coupled with the dispenser, whereby the toilet freshener is flexible and adapted for the widest possible range of applications.

Pump—

For the present application, a pump is a fluid power machine for moving or delivering in particular small quantities of fluid by converting mechanical drive power into flow power.

Fluids are understood to be liquids and gases, and mixtures thereof and with solids.

Pumps include positive-displacement pumps, oscillatory pumps, diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, rotary pumps, dynamic pumps, centrifugal pumps, electrohydrodynamic pumps, electroosmotic pumps, magnetohydrodynamic pumps, surface acoustic wave pumps, capillary pumps, electrowetting pumps, thermocapillary pumps.

The pump is either connected directly to the power source or to the control unit interposed therebetween.

In a further embodiment of the invention, release of at least one preparation can occur merely by gravity without use of a pump. Release of the preparation from the container into the surrounding environment can be controlled in this configuration, for example, by a valve which opens to release the preparation and closes to prevent release. The valve may be controlled directly by the power source or by the control unit connected therebetween.

The pump, sensor and control unit are advantageously configured in such a way that a defined amount of active substance preparation is released into the toilet bowl irrespective of the arrangement of the toilet freshener in or on the toilet bowl and/or of the amount of flush water to which the toilet freshener is exposed.

The pump likewise makes it possible for at least two different, defined amounts of at least one active substance preparation to be released. A significant advantage of this embodiment of the invention is that active substances are dispensed into the toilet bowl in a manner appropriate to needs, thereby achieving active substance use which is more effective and better conserves resources.

In a further development of the invention, the pump is configured in such a way that it is able to release an active substance preparation with a viscosity of <5000 mPa·s.

Micropump—

The delivery rate of a micropump amounts conventionally to from 50 nl to 100 ml per minute, preferably from 250 nl to 30 ml per minute, particularly preferably from 500 nl to 5 ml per minute.

Preferably the micropump has a structural volume of about 5 cm³ or less, particularly preferably of about 3 cm³ or less, particularly preferably of about 2 cm³ or less.

The specific delivery rate of a micropump (calculated from the ratio of the delivery rate to the structural volume of a micropump) is typically about 500 [l/min] or less. The specific delivery rate preferably lies from 1 to 300, particularly preferably from 1.5 to 200, particularly preferably from 2 to 150, very particularly preferred from 2.5 to 100 l/min.

Diaphragm Pumps—

Diaphragm pumps are particularly advantageous for dispensing cleaning and active substance preparations as well as fragrances.

Diaphragm pumps typically include an inlet valve and an outlet valve respectively leading into and out of a pump chamber, formed in part from a pump diaphragm, and an actuator.

When the inlet valve is closed, the actuator causes compression of the pump chamber by acting mechanically on the pump diaphragm, whereby fluid located in the pump chamber is conveyed out of the pump chamber via the open outlet valve.

Once the discharge process is complete, the outlet valve is closed and decompression of the pump chamber is effected by the actuator, whereby the fluid is then drawn into the pump chamber via the now open inlet valve.

By suitable configuration and/or control of the valves and actuator, the delivery direction the micropump may be influenced or reversed.

The diaphragm pump actuator can be electromotive, piezoceramic, bimetallic, memory metallic, pneumatic, peristaltic, electrostatic, electromagnetic or thermal drive units.

The valves can be active or passive valves. Passive valves include clack valves, diaphragm valves or no-moving-parts valves.

Depending on the field of application, pressure-side release of the preparation from the dispenser can occur dropwise, as a jet or spray, by diffusion or by vaporization.

For preparations having a tendency to form deposits over extended storage, it may be advantageous to arrange the container housing the preparation on the pressure side of the pump. In this configuration, only a fluid containing no deposit-forming substances is delivered through the pump. In this case, it is particularly advantageous to use air as the fluid.

The fluid is pumped into the container under pressure. The container has a pressure equalizing valve which, when a defined pressure in the container is exceeded, allows the product to flow out of the container.

In this way it is in particular possible to use the dispenser for the most varied preparations, without jeopardizing the functionality of the pump by possible deposits or reactions between two preparations.

Release Elements—

Release elements are any kind of device suitable for releasing an active substance into the surrounding environment of the dispenser.

Release elements include nozzles, valves, spray heads, droplet dispensers, foam spray heads, piezo elements, porous elements, wick systems, capillary systems, nebulizers, ultrasound nebulizers, ionization nebulizers, etc.

Nozzles, valves, spray heads, droplet dispensers, foam spray heads, piezo elements and the like are in particular suitable for releasing active substances into the toilet or onto the interior surfaces of the toilet bowl.

Nozzles, valves, atomizers, spray heads, piezo elements, sintered plates, porous elements, wick systems and the like are in particular suitable for releasing active substance preparations into the air.

Release elements can have the same or different spray cone shapes when releasing the preparations. Accordingly, it is possible for one release element to produce a jet with a somewhat narrow or direct application area, while another release element produces a broad application field. Obviously, various combinations of the most varied spray cone shapes are possible.

In particular, the release element can be arranged in movable manner on the toilet freshener allowing the user to orient the spray cone on the release element onto a desired application field. The release element can also permit adjustment of the spray cone shape.

The release element can also provide electrostatic charging of active substance droplets, thereby improving the wetting, adhesion and/or distribution of the active substance on a surface and/or in the air.

The release element can also be constructed as a fan configured either to improve air quality by drawing in malodors or to optimize active substance distribution in or on the toilet bowl.

Release elements can further be configured so that one or more active substances are released in different directions from one another. The following table provides a non-exhaustive list of some possible configurations regarding direction of release.

Direction of release A Direction of release B Release of fragrance into Release of fragrance into toilet bowl surrounding environment Release of cleaning agent Release of cleaning agent under into toilet bowl the toilet rim/during flushing or outside the flushing process Release of cleaning agent Release of fragrance into into toilet bowl surrounding environment

Further desired combinations of the configurations shown in the above table are also possible.

It is advantageous to arrange the release element in movable manner on the clip of the toilet freshener. Doing so allows the user to orient the release element and spray cone of the preparation in order to wet a defined application field in or on the toilet with preparation.

The release element(s) is/are advantageously configured so that, irrespective of the positioning of the toilet freshener on the toilet bowl, a defined amount of at least one active substance preparation is released in directed and defined manner into the interior of a toilet bowl. Advantages of such a development include more specific exposure of surfaces of the toilet bowl to one or more active substances, wherein different surfaces may be treated with active substances which differ from one another. For example, in the case of a German style flat-pan toilet, the pan can be wetted with an active substance for reducing adhesions, while an active substance for reducing lime deposits is applied onto the funnel-shaped walls extending from the pan to the rim of the toilet.

In a further, preferred embodiment of the invention the control unit generates a control signal for releasing active substance preparation when flushing is initiated, and a control signal for terminating active substance release once flush water has stopped flowing through the toilet bowl.

In another development of the toilet freshener according to the invention, the first amount released and at least the second amount released originate from identical or different active substance preparations.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the first amount released and at least the second amount released are released at different points in time.

Control Unit—

A control unit for the present application is a device suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and/or information. To this end, the control unit acts on transducers with the assistance of information which it processes for the purposes of the control objective.

Transducers include pumps and/or valves.

In a preferred development of the invention the toilet freshener does not make use of any mechanical control elements for product release, enabling the toilet freshener to be miniaturized so that it may also be used in applications in which size of the toilet freshener is critical.

The control unit may in particular include a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dispensing programs are stored in the microprocessor for selection and execution depending on the container coupled to the toilet freshener. It is also possible for the dispensing programs to be manually invoked by the user.

The control unit is preferably arranged on the outwardly facing side of the toilet bowl, allowing it to be operated by the user, in particular. when the user is sitting on the toilet.

In a particularly preferred development of the invention, the control unit has a dispensing program for introducing at least two different active substance preparations into a toilet bowl or into the surrounding environment of the toilet bowl, wherein at least two successive points in time t₁ and t₂ at least two different active substance preparations are released, with at least one active substance preparation introduced into the interior of a toilet bowl.

Such a dispensing program allows optimized cleaning performance due to control of possible chemical reactions due to appropriately time-offset release of the corresponding preparation or preparations, some examples of which are listed, but not exhaustively, in the following table.

t₁ t₂ Advantage Cleaning product Fragrance in Optimized fragrance development, since fragrance is in toilet bowl toilet bowl after released into the toilet bowl after flushing and is during flushing flushing consequently not flushed away with the flush water. process Fragrance is not “decomposed” by cleaning preparation. Fragrance in Cleaning product Optimized fragrance development, since fragrance is toilet bowl in toilet bowl released into the toilet bowl before flushing and is immediately during flushing consequently not flushed away with the flush water. before use process Fragrance is not “decomposed” by cleaning preparation. Cleaning product Cleaning product Cleaning product A may prevent adhesions in the toilet A in toilet bowl B in toilet bowl bowl by a protective film of cleaning product A being immediately during flushing applied in the toilet bowl immediately before the toilet is before use process used, which protective film is then flushed back off the toilet surface by cleaning product B during the flushing process.

Another advantage is that a controlled release of one or more different perfumes can be implemented, thereby at least reducing dependence on the sense of smell. This can be accomplished by a clocking procedure and pulsed dispensing of perfume as described in the art. Furthermore, dependence on smell can also be reduced by dispensing different perfumes in succession.

The toilet freshener can also dose a defoaming agent into the toilet bowl before or during the flushing operation. Excessive foaming before or during the flushing operation often causes toilet paper to float on this foam so that it is not properly flushed away with the flushing water, but instead floats in the toilet bowl even after the flushing operation has completed. This is unattractive to the consumer. By dosing the defoaming agent before or during the flushing operation, excessive foaming is prevented and reliable disposal of toilet paper is ensured. In addition or as an alternative to the defoaming agent, substances that dissolve cellulose may also be added.

The control unit can be designed so that parameters in the dosing programs are adjustable. For example, sensor threshold values can be adjusted during preconfiguration of the toilet freshener, or by the user during use to trigger release of active ingredient at a certain sensor threshold value. The setting of one or more parameters can be implemented by a suitably configured input device on the toilet freshener. In this way, control of the toilet freshener can be further optimized and adapted to a certain application case.

Further, the release element and at least the first preparation can be configured so that foam is formed on release of the preparation into the surrounding environment.

Alternatively, the pump, release element and at least the first preparation can be configured so that foam is formed on release of the preparation into the surrounding environment.

Foaming provides several possible advantages. For example, foam is particularly effective in trapping and minimizing malodors because of its pore and cell structure. Further, foam can be applied onto the surface of the toilet bowl as an “anti-caking” coating for reducing adhesion of excreted metabolites to these surfaces.

Therefore, in one embodiment the release element includes a foam spray head, with a preparation having a viscosity of less than 3000 mPa·s, so that a maximally stable, effectively adhering and fine-pored foam is formed.

Sensor Unit—

The sensor unit can include one or more active and/or passive sensors for qualitative and/or quantitative detection of mechanical, electrical, physical and/or chemical variables, which are forwarded to the control unit as control signals.

In particular, sensors in the sensor unit include timers, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, strain sensors, rotational speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, instantaneous acoustic pressure sensors, “lab-on-a-chip” sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and/or MEMS sensors.

In a simple embodiment, the sensor unit can be embodied as a toggle, pressure or momentary-contact switch.

For preparations whose viscosity fluctuates greatly as a function of temperature, it is advantageous for the volume and/or mass control of the dosed preparations to provide flow rate sensors in the dosing device. Suitable flow rate sensors include diaphragm flow rate sensors, magnetic-inductive flow meters, mass flow rate measurement according to the Coriolis method, eddy counter flow rate measurement methods, ultrasonic flow rate measurement methods, particulate flow rate measurement, ring-piston flow rate measurement, thermal mass flow rate measurement or active pressure flow rate measurement.

It is also possible to store a viscosity curve as a function of temperature for at least one preparation in the control unit, so that dosing is adjusted by the control unit in accordance with the temperature and thus the viscosity of the preparation.

In another embodiment of the invention, a device for direct determination of the viscosity of the preparation is provided.

The alternatives mentioned above for determining the dosing quantity and/or viscosity of a preparation serve to generate a control signal, which is processed by the control unit for control of a pump, whereby constant dosing of a preparation is induced.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensor is configured so that detection of a flushing operation is implemented without any significant influence on the flow conditions in the toilet bowl. For example, ultrasonic sensors may be used for this purpose.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if in a dosing operation a defined quantity of a preparation is dispensed in a time of less than 20 seconds, preferably less than 20 seconds, particularly preferably less than 5 seconds. With a dosing interval which is as short as possible, during which a preparation is dispensed to the surrounding environment, the dispenser can be available promptly for the next dosing interval and also ensure an effective dispensing of preparation with ongoing use.

Power Source

According to the present application, the power source is understood to be a component of the dispenser, which is expedient for providing power suitable for self-sufficient operation of the dispenser.

The power source preferably supplies electrical power. The power source can be, for example, a battery, a mains power supply, solar cells or the like.

It is also possible to transmit the electrical power required for operating the dispenser wirelessly by radio waves from an appropriate transmitter to a corresponding receiver in the dispenser.

It is particularly advantageous to design the power source to be replaceable (e.g., in the form of a replaceable battery).

However, it is also possible for the power source to be a mechanical power source such as a dynamo, which converts mechanical or fluid energy into electricity. This can then be stored in suitable storage elements such as a capacitor or battery.

Container—

A container according to the present application refers to a packaging suitable for enclosing or holding preparations and can be coupled to the dispenser for dispensing the preparation.

An arrangement comprising two containers, preferably, separate from one another, with each containing an active substance fluid, is especially preferred. However, multiple storage containers for multiple active ingredient fluids may also be provided. The storage containers are separated from one another in order to suppress premature mixing of the active ingredient fluids. They can be designed to be physically separate or as separate components in a cohesive body.

The volume ratio formed from the structural volume of the dosing device and the filling volume of the container preferably is <1, especially preferably <0.1, in particular preferably <0.05. With a predefined total structural volume of the dosing device and the container, the predominant proportion of the structural volume is provided by the container and the preparation contained therein.

The container typically has a filling capacity of <5000 ml, in particular <1000 ml, preferably <500 ml, particularly preferably <250 ml, very particularly preferably <50 ml.

The invention is suitable for dimensionally stable containers such as pots, tins, capsules, cartridges, bottles, canisters, cans, cartons, drums or tubes, but can also be used for flexible containers such as pouches or bags, in particular when used in accordance with the bag-in-bottle principle.

A container can also have multiple chambers which can be filled with different compositions. It is also possible for a plurality of containers to be arranged to form one unit (e.g., a cartridge).

Examples of possible combinations of containers and/or chambers having the corresponding preparations are summarized in the following table for a few applications.

Container A Container B Container C Cleaning agent Fragrance Cleaning agent A Cleaning agent B Cleaning agent A Cleaning agent B Fragrance

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container has an RFID label containing at least information about the container's contents and which is readable by the sensor unit.

This information can be used to select a dispensing program stored in the control unit. By doing so, it can be ensured that the ideal dispensing program is always used for a specific preparation. It is also possible that, in the absence of an RFID label or in the case of an RFID label with an incorrect or defective ID, the dispenser does not dispense, but instead an optical or acoustic signal is produced which notifies the user of the error.

In order to prevent misuse of the containers, the containers can also have structural elements which interact with corresponding elements of the dispenser like a key in a lock, so that only containers of a particular type are coupled to the dispenser. This embodiment makes it possible for information about the container coupled to the dispenser to be transferred to the control unit so that the dispenser can be controlled in a manner consistent with the contents of the corresponding container.

In another embodiment of the invention, the container may be under pressure. This is advantageous when the preparation is sprayed or released without requiring a pump in between. In this case, release of the preparation can be controlled or regulated, for example, by a control valve in active connection with the control unit. This embodiment has the additional advantage that no power need be provided by the power source for transporting the preparation, enabling the power source to be made smaller or have a longer anticipated life.

Fasteners—

The toilet freshener can additionally comprise fasteners for fixing the toilet freshener to the toilet bowl. Fasteners include suction cups, adhesive tape, clips or the like.

Alternatively, the toilet freshener can be fastened to the toilet cistern, the toilet seat or to the toilet lid. Fasteners known in the art can be used for this purpose.

Preparations—

Preparations according to the present application are compositions containing at least one substance from the group of cleaning agents and/or fragrances.

According to a further, preferred development of the invention, preparations include substances for modifying surfaces, in particular ceramic surfaces.

Preparations suitable according to the invention include, for example, fragrance phases, in particular, perfumed fragrance phases. Such fragrance phases typically contain at least one fragrance, preferably a perfume oil, at least one surfactant or an emulsifier and water and optionally further ingredients such as preservatives, thickeners, complexing agents, dyes, further surfactants, or emulsifiers, stabilizers, limescale removers, etc.

Bleach phases, in particular chlorine-containing bleach phases, preferably hypochlorite-based bleach phases, are likewise suitable as preparations according to the invention, wherein the bleach phases can contain additional ingredients such as thickeners, surfactants or emulsifiers, neutralizers, dyes, perfumes, etc., in addition to the actual bleaching agent and/or water.

Further preparations suitable according to the invention include lime scale removing active substance phases, preferably acidic lime scale removing active substance phases. In addition to the actual lime scale remover (which preferably comprises an organic or inorganic acid) and water, such lime scale removing active substance phases may optionally contain ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives etc.

It is also possible to use highly concentrated surfactant phases, or “foam boosters” as they are known, as preparations. In addition to the surfactants, such highly concentrated surfactant phases may also contain still further, conventional ingredients. Foam boosters are particularly advantageous for pretreating the toilet bowl with a carpet of foam in order, for example, to prevent adhesion of excreted metabolites to the surface of the toilet or to reduce and/or trap malodors.

Preparations with an antibacterial and/or fungicidal and/or antiviral active substance phase are likewise suitable according to the invention, wherein in addition to the antibacterial and/or fungicidal and/or antiviral active substance and water, the active substance phase may optionally contain further ingredients, such as for example surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives etc.

It is also possible for the preparations to have enzyme-containing active substance phases. In addition to enzyme(s) and water, such enzyme-containing active substance phases can optionally contain further ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, etc.

It is likewise possible for the preparations used according to the invention to be absorbent, in particular, odor-absorbing active substance phases. In addition to the absorbent and water, said phases may optionally contain further ingredients such as surfactants or emulsifiers, thickeners, fragrances, preservatives etc.

According to one particular embodiment, the toilet freshener according to the invention provides the possibility of using combinations of different preparations in the storage containers, such that one of the storage containers contains a fragrance phase as defined above.

Examples of useful preparation combinations include perfumed fragrance phases combined with chlorine bleach (which are not stable when stored together), perfumed fragrance phase with highly concentrated surfactant phase (foam boosters), fragrance phase with lime scale removing, acidic active substance phase, fragrance phase with antibacterial active substance phase, various acid systems, fragrance phase combined with enzyme-containing active substance phase, perfumed acid phase combined with water-coloring phase, fragrance phase with odor-absorbing phase, perfumed acid phase with active oxygen, perfumed acid phase with active substance phase, polyacrylate-thickened etc.

Of particular interest are high-viscosity to gel-like active substance fluids with viscosities of the order of about a few thousand mPa·s, in particular from about 200 to about 5000 mPa·s, preferably about 500 to about 3500 mPa·s (measured with RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31, 5 rpm, 20° C.).

In a further, preferred development of the invention the preparations have a viscosity of about 2000 mPa·s or less, in particular, about 1000 mPa·s or less (measured with RotoVisko LVTV II, spindle 31, 5 rpm, 20° C.). Such low-viscosity to watery preparations are particularly suitable if the preparation is sprayed into or onto the toilet bowl.

Using low-viscosity active substance preparations in conjunction with the toilet freshener according to the invention makes it possible to achieve substantially faster and more accurate dispensing and to dispense with the use of thickening systems. Furthermore, active substance systems which can only be prepared in low viscosities can be used, for example, based on chlorine, HCl, etc.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the preparation can be pressurized. This is advantageous when the preparation is sprayed or released without requiring a pump in between. In this case, release of the preparation can be controlled or regulated by a control valve actively connected to the control unit. This embodiment has the further advantage that no power need be provided by the power source for transporting the preparation, enabling the power source to be made smaller or have a longer anticipated life.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a preparation container on the pressure side of the pump.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a passive valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 4A is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with an active valve-controlled two-chamber preparation container on the suction side of the pump.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with two pump-connected preparation containers.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating one method of controlling a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a pump.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating one method of controlling a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a pump and multi-chamber preparation container.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating one method of controlling a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a plurality of pumps and multi-chamber preparation container.

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with an RFID label on a preparation container.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a removable refill container.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a refill container fixed to a dispenser.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a battery built into the refill container.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a two-chamber refill container and two pumps.

FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a two-chamber refill container, pump, and control valve.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with an extendible clip.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a removable container and wick system.

FIG. 17 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a release element arranged at the end of the clip.

FIG. 18 is a top view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with a release element arranged at the end of the clip, with the freshener attached to a toilet bowl.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with individually replaceable containers.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a release element according to the present invention with integrated sensor unit and two release nozzles.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a release element according to the present invention with integrated sensor unit, two release nozzles and two spray cones.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with release element and two spray cones, looking down onto a toilet bowl.

FIG. 23 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with integrated sensor unit and two release nozzles.

FIG. 24 is a side view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with the release element arranged under the toilet rim and a spray cone directed under the rim of the toilet.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a toilet freshener according to the present invention with two individually replaceable containers and a viewing flap in closed and open positions.

FIG. 1 shows a toilet freshener 1 according to the invention consisting of a dispenser 2 and a container 9 connected to the dispenser 2 and containing a preparation 10.

The dispenser 2 includes a power source 3, control unit 4, sensor unit 5 and pump 6, all preferably incorporated in a housing. The pump 6 is connected to the power source 3 via the control unit 4. The control unit 4 is in turn connected with the sensor unit 5, which directs the control signals for controlling the pump 6 to the control unit 4.

The pump 6 has a pressure line 7 and a suction line 8, with the suction line 8 connected to the container 9 containing the preparation 10. The pump 6 accordingly delivers the flowable preparation 10 via the suction line 8 from the container 9 into the pressure line 7, from which the preparation 10 is released into the surrounding environment of the toilet freshener 1. The pressure line 7 can be configured so that it counteracts gelation of the released preparation (e.g., by selection of a suitable diameter).

The container 9 can have a pressure equalizing valve 11 for equalizing the pressure between the surrounding environment and the interior of the container 9 when the pump 6 is pumping preparation 10 out of the container 9.

The pump 6 can be actuated by the control unit 4 so that the delivery direction of the pump 6 is reversed, and any preparation still present in the pump 6 and the lines 7 and 8 is delivered back into the container 9. This back-flushing can be advantageous when the preparation 10 thickens, clogging the lines 7 or 8.

FIG. 2 shows a further embodiment of the dispenser known from FIG. 1 in which the container 9 is connected to the pressure side of the pump 6. Here, the pump 6 builds up pressure in the container 9 by pumping ambient air into the container 9, thereby expelling the preparation from the container 9. A valve 11 can be provided on the preparation outlet side of the container 9, permitting release of the preparation 10 from the container 9 when a defined pressure is reached in the container 9. This can be advantageous when there is a defined spray stream or spray mist dosing instead of dropwise dosing.

In addition, a non-return valve 11 a can be provided in the pressure line 7 between the pump 6 and the container 9, preventing pressure built up in the container 9 from escaping through the pressure line 7 when the pump 6 is at a standstill.

FIG. 3 shows the dispenser 2 known from FIG. 1 wherein a two-chamber container formed from the containers 9 and 13 is connected to the suction line 8 of the pump 6. The containers 9 and 13 can each contain different compositions 10 and 14.

The containers 9 and 13 can each have pressure equalizing valves 11, 12.

The outlet openings at the bottom of the containers 9 and 13 are connected to the suction line 8 and pump 6 so that the preparations 10 and 14 are pumped through the suction line 8 in a defined ratio to one another. It may be necessary here to adjust the flow conditions in the pressure lines 8 leading to the outlet openings at the bottom of the containers 9 and 13.

When more than two different preparations 10 and 14 are used, it is advantageous to control dispensing so that two mutually compatible preparations are conveyed in succession through the lines 7, 8 and pump 6.

Incompatibility of two preparations can result in, for example, an exothermic reaction, thickening, flocculation, pH value modification, color change or the like.

A third container can be provided containing a flushing fluid for cleaning at least one of the preparations 10, 14 from the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6. Air can also be used for flushing the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6. By flushing the lines 7, 8 and the pump 6, it is possible to prevent residues of mutually incompatible preparations from coming into contact.

FIG. 4 shows a further development of the toilet freshener 1 known from FIG. 3. The pressure lines 8 leading to the outlet openings at the bottom of the containers 9 and 13 each have a passive valve 15 and 16, allowing defined setting of the dispensing ratios of the preparations 10 and 14 from containers 9 and 13.

The valves 15 and 16 can also be designed as temperature-sensitive bimetallic valves that open or close when a defined temperature is reached. In particular, the valves 15 and 16 can be different bimetallic valves so that, for example, only one preparation may be conveyed by the pump 6 from one of containers 9 or 13 once a defined temperature has been reached.

A common feature of the dispensers according to FIGS. 1-4 is that the control unit 4 controls the pump 6 by processing the signals from the sensor unit 5.

A basic control algorithm 20 is shown in FIG. 6 in the form of a flow diagram.

The control algorithm 20 is activated, as soon as the dispenser 2 is switched on. In a first process step 22, the control unit 4 receives the signals from the sensor unit 5. In the control unit 4, the received sensor signal is compared with a threshold value stored in the control unit 4.

In the following process step 24, a selection condition is used to check whether the sensor signal and the threshold value are in a defined relationship to one another. If the condition is met, the pump 6 is then activated by process step 25. If the condition is not met, sensor signals continue to be received and evaluated by the control unit according to process step 22.

As can be seen from process steps 25-29, the pump 6 remains in an activated state until a sensor signal arises which, on comparison with a threshold value stored in the control unit 4, causes the micropump to switch off. According to this procedure, preparation is pumped out of the containers for as long as the sensor signal varies between two predefined threshold values respectively for switching the pump 6 on and off.

Alternatively, it is also possible to modify the above described controller so that a simple trigger circuit is created wherein switching on the micropump according to process step 25 brings about the release of a defined amount of preparation, and then automatically switches off the micropump without requiring a further, sensor signal-based switching off condition for the pump 6.

As shown in FIG. 4A, it is also possible to configure the valves 15 and 16 as components actively controlled by the control unit 4. In this manner, the mixing ratio of the two preparations 10 and 14 can be actively influenced in a time-variable manner.

The control scheme underlying this embodiment is shown in FIG. 7 with the assistance of a flow diagram 30.

FIG. 5 shows a further possibility for actively influencing the mixing ratios in time-variable manner. In this embodiment of the invention, each of the containers 9 and 13 is coupled with a pump 6 and 19 individually controlled by the control unit 4. The corresponding control algorithm is shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 shows the dispenser known from FIG. 1 wherein an RFID label 42 suitable for identifying the size and the contents 10 of the container 9 is arranged on the container 9.

The sensor unit 5 comprises an RFID receive unit capable of reading the information from the RFID label 42 arranged on the container 9. This information is sent as a control signal to the control unit 4 to bring about dispensing of the preparation 10 based on the contents of the container 9. In particular, control signals induced by the RFID label 42 can be used to select a dispensing program stored in the control unit.

In this way, a multipurpose dispenser for a plurality of dispensing applications is provided, such as for dispensing of preparations in dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, toilets or living spaces.

As an alternative to the RFID label 42, a person skilled in the art may also provide other means which bring about automatic identification of the container 9 and its contents 10 by the dispenser.

Furthermore, an additional release device 43 may be provided at the pressure-side opening of the pressure line 7. This release device 43 brings about a distribution of the preparation into the surrounding environment of the dispenser 1 which differs from dropwise release. This may for example involve jet- or spray mist-like release of the preparation or release based on vaporization or diffusion. The release device 43 may to this end take the form, for example, of a nozzle, atomizer, distributor plate or porous surface. In particular, the release device may be configured so that it counteracts gelation of the released preparations.

FIG. 10 shows the toilet freshener from FIG. 1 with a container 9 detachable from the dispenser 2. The container 9 includes at its lower, bottom end a connection port 47 which can be introduced into the receptacle 48 provided on the dispenser 1. The connection port 47 can be closed by closure means so that initially, in the unused state of the container 9, leakage of preparation 10 from the container 9 is prevented; however, by inserting the container 9 into the dispenser 2 or the connection port 47 into the receptacle 48, the closure means is destroyed allowing release of the preparation 10 into the surrounding environment from the container 9 by the dispenser 2. FIG. 11 shows the toilet freshener in its assembled state.

The control unit 4 can be also coupled with an acoustic transducer 46 for converting a voltage or current of the control unit into an audible acoustic signal. The control unit 4 can include memory for a plurality of acoustic signals and/or music and/or speech recordings retrieved and executed manually or on the basis of a sensor trigger signal (i.e., forwarded to the acoustic transducer 46).

A light 44 can be connected to the control unit 2, wherein the light 44 is turned on or off in accordance with a predefined operating state of the dispensing unit 2. The light can take the form of, for example, an LED or LCD display.

The dispenser 2 can be switched on or off with the actuating element 45. It is additionally possible for different programs stored in the control unit 4 to be retrieved and executed by the actuating element 45.

FIG. 12 shows a further development of the toilet freshener according to the invention in which the power source 3 in the form of a battery is incorporated in the container 9. The battery 3 is electrically conductively connected to the dispenser 2 via an appropriately configured coupling. The capacity of the battery 3 is designed to supply the dispenser 2 with power over the period of use until the preparation 10 has been completely emptied from the container 9.

FIG. 13 shows the structure of the toilet freshener according to the invention known in principle from FIG. 5 in a more detailed schematic diagram. The chamber 9 is subdivided into two chambers by a wall 49 in which a first preparation 10 and a second preparation 14 are stored. Each chamber communicates with the surrounding environment via a pressure equalizing valve 11 or 12 and has at its bottom end a connection port 47 a or 47 b.

FIGS. 15-17 show a further embodiment of the toilet freshener according to the invention. The toilet freshener includes the dispenser 2 and the container 9 which is detachably fixable to the dispenser 2. The dispenser has a raised rear wall from which perpendicularly extends the fastening means 52 in the form of a clip. The clip 52 is positioned between the rim of the toilet and the toilet seat, where it is fixed to the toilet bowl by the toilet seat resting on it. As seen from FIG. 17, a suction cup can additionally be provided on the dispenser for additionally securing the toilet freshener to the toilet by vacuum.

A pressure or strain sensor is arranged as a sensor unit 5 on the upwardly directed top side of the fastening means 52. When pressure is exerted on this sensor unit 5 (e.g., by someone sitting on a toilet seat), the sensor unit 5 generates a corresponding signal which is relayed to the control unit 4 of the dispenser 2.

The container 9 is separable from the dispenser, as seen in FIG. 16. The container 9 has a wick system 50 in its interior, with which the preparation is released by the release element 43 a from the container 9 into the surrounding environment by evaporation. The connection port 47 and the receptacle 48 in the dispenser 2 form a liquid-tight connection when container 9 and dispenser 2 are in the assembled state.

A release element 43 in the form of a nozzle head is provided on the clip 52. The nozzle head 43 is arranged in movable manner on the clip 52, such that it may be oriented by the user. Between the nozzle head 43 and clip 52, a telescopic element 53 is arranged, by means of which the length of the clip 52 and thus the point of application of the nozzle head 43 is settable. The nozzle head 43 produces from the preparation a spray cone 54 which, as is apparent from FIG. 18, wets a defined application field within the toilet bowl 55.

A further, alternative development of the toilet freshener according to the invention is shown in FIG. 19. In this embodiment, the containers 9 and 13 are firmly connected with the dispenser 2 and can be refilled via an opening (not shown in FIG. 19).

FIG. 20 shows a release element 43 arranged at the distal end of the clip 52 with an integrated sensor 5 and two nozzles 56 and 57. In this exemplary embodiment, the sensor 5 takes the form of an infrared sensor or ultrasound sensor.

The nozzles 56 and 57 can be configured so that they produce identical or different spray cones 54 a, 54 b, as illustrated in FIG. 21. As shown in FIG. 22, the spray cones 54 a and 54 b can be directed onto the same application field in the interior of a toilet bowl 55. However, it is also apparent from FIGS. 23 and 24 that it is possible to orient the two spray cones in different directions.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the release element 43 is fixed by a hook on the inside on the lower rim of the toilet bowl 55. The release element 43 is therefore displaceably arranged on the clip 52, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 23. In addition, the toilet freshener 1 is fixed by the fastener 50, here in the form of a suction cup, to the external rim of the toilet bowl 55.

The release element 43 has a first nozzle 56 and a second nozzle 57 which are spaced apart and arranged in the release element 43 so that their respective spray cones 54 a and 54 b point in different, non-overlapping directions. Spray cone 54 a from the first nozzle 56 is accordingly directed into the interior of the toilet bowl 55, while spray cone 54 b from the second nozzle 57 is directed onto the rim of the toilet bowl. It is also possible, as shown in FIG. 24, for a spray cone 54 b to be directed under the rim of the toilet bowl 55. The spray cones 54 a and 54 b may be formed from identical or different compositions.

A sensor unit 5 in the form of a capacitive sensor projects from the release element under the rim of the toilet 55, enabling the sensor 5 to be exposed to water when flushing is actuated. The sensor 5 is shaped so that it has no significant influence on the path of the flushing water in the toilet bowl 55.

FIG. 25 shows a further development of the containers 9 and 13 and of the dispenser 2. The receptacle for the containers 9 and 13 in the dispenser is closable by a flap 58 arranged swivelably on the dispenser 2. With the flap 58 in the open state, the two containers 9 and 13 may be separately removed from or inserted into the receptacle of the dispenser 2.

FIG. 25 shows in a further development of the invention a toilet freshener 1 with two individually replaceable containers 9 and 13 and a viewing flap 58 in closed and in open position. The viewing flap 58 is hinged to the rear wall of the toilet freshener and shaped in such a manner that the viewing flap 58 preferably completely covers the containers 9 and 13 inserted in the toilet freshener 1. The viewing flap 58 may be equipped with closure means which permit child-proof closure of the viewing flap 58 with the toilet freshener and so prevent unintended access to the containers 9 and 13.

The light 44 and actuating element 45 are arranged on the front of the toilet freshener so that they are not covered when the inspection or viewing flap 58 is closed, but are instead freely accessible. 

1. Toilet freshener for introducing at least one active substance preparation into a toilet bowl, comprising: a power source, a control unit, a sensor unit, and at least one first container containing a first preparation, wherein the container can be coupled with the toilet freshener, wherein the sensor unit detects initiation of a flush water stream without intervening in flush water flow and generates a sensor signal able to be forwarded to the control unit, wherein the control unit converts the sensor signal into a control signal for release of at least one preparation, wherein the power source, control unit and at least the first container interact so that in the presence of a control signal which represents initiation of the flush water stream, at least the first preparation is released from the first container into the surrounding environment by a pump and/or a release element.
 2. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is an ultrasound sensor, motion sensor, brightness sensor, vibration sensor, instantaneous acoustic pressure sensor, moisture sensor and/or moisture sensor.
 3. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit can measures without contacting the flush water stream.
 4. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit comprises a tube having a diameter of about 2 mm or less extending into the flush water stream perpendicularly to the flush water flow direction.
 5. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, further comprising a settable threshold value of the sensor signal at which the control unit generates a control signal.
 6. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is directed into the interior of the toilet bowl.
 7. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, further comprising a release element into which the sensor unit is incorporated.
 8. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is arranged at the distal end of a clip connected with the dispenser positioned on the outer rim of the toilet bowl.
 9. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is a programmable microcontroller.
 10. Toilet freshener according to claim 9, further comprising a plurality of selectable dispensing programs stored in the microcontroller.
 11. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the control unit generates a control signal for releasing active substance preparation when flushing is initiated and generates a control signal for terminating active substance release once flush water has stopped flowing through the toilet bowl.
 12. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the pump and/or release element and at least the first preparation are configured so that foam is formed on release of the preparation into the surrounding environment.
 13. Toilet freshener according to claim 1, wherein the release element is movably arranged on the toilet freshener enabling a user to orient a spray cone produced by the release element onto a desired application field. 